From George Washington to Edmund Randolph, 29 March 1794
To Edmund Randolph
Philadelphia 29 March 1794
Sir
It is to be regretted that the Snow Camilla had not got off before she was arrested by the Revenue Officer. To permit it now as she is a loaded Vessel might be a delicate, if not an unjustifiable measure, under the Act of Congress laying an Embargo.1
Whether the representation of the French Minister in his second application is of weight sufficient to induce a departure from the obvious meaning of the Embargo, is worthy of consideration, under the peculiar circumstances which are related.2
I am well disposed, and think we ought to comply with Mr Fauchets request, if it can be done without envolving unpleasant consequences. I am &ca.
ADf, DNA: RG 59, Miscellaneous Letters; LB, DNA: RG 59, GW’s Correspondence with His Secretaries of State.
1. On the sailing of the French snow Camilla, contrary to the embargo imposed by Congress, see Randolph to GW, 28 March, and notes 1 and 3. For Randolph’s denial of French minister Fauchet’s request that this vessel be issued a passport, see n.1 of Randolph’s second letter to GW of 29 March.
2. For Fauchet’s second letter to Randolph of 28 March, see n.1 of Randolph’s letter to GW of that date.